Source: (1996) Seton Hall Legislative Journal. 20:433.
Marianne McConnell, using an actual case as an example of the current juvenile justice system in New Jersey, points to public frustration over the state’s inability to resolve the crisis of rising juvenile crime. Various critics and advisory groups have identified a number of basic problems with the system. McConnell maintains that the New Jersey Code of Juvenile Justice (the Code) would be enhanced by a program providing mediation of juvenile offenses. Currently, the Code seeks rehabilitation of juveniles within the context of the family. McConnell’s position is that this purpose would be better achieved by means of a mediation process rather than formal adjudication in court. Indeed, she argues that victims and communities are also more effectively served by mediation, and so she advocates for legislative support for mediation in the New Jersey juvenile justice system.
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